City ponders change in code aimed at ride-sharing service

The city of Austin is considering changes to the city code to deal with new transportation options in Austin — particularly Web-enabled ride sharing. A proposed ordinance, which was part of a recent City Council work session, would clarify the city’s definitions of compensation, e-hail, and ride sharing services.

The new rules could have a big effect on how the city deals with peer-to-peer ride-sharing services. Those providing such services have argued that they shouldn’t be subject to the city’s ground transportation regulations because they aren’t taxi companies, but rather a form of carpooling and ride sharing.